Being Me and Becoming Mum Perinatal Occupational Therapy Group

What is the ‘Being Me and Becoming Mum’ group?

Perinatal is the period of time immediately after the birth of a baby and the first year after the birth. This group is an online occupational therapy group designed to support women who are experiencing mental health problems during this period of time.

We invite up to six women who are being supported by the BSW Perinatal Team to the group.

The first 1001 days after conception are a critical time for babies. It can also be a really tough time for parents and have a big impact on a mum’s mental health. All kinds of factors can contribute including history of mental health problems, family history of mental health problems, lack of support and a traumatic pregnancy or birth.

Low mood and anxiety are common mental health problems that can act as barriers and prevent us from doing the things that we want, need and love to do.

I am interested – how do I join the group?

Please ask your care coordinator to let the occupational therapist (OT) know you are interested.We then contact you to arrange a virtual or face-to-face appointment to discuss whether the group will be suitable for you.If so and you would like to attend the group, the OT will agree a start date with you. You will be sent an email with the group pack which contains resources for each of the four sessions.

How often will I need to attend the group?

The group is made up of six sessions which will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. Each session takes place weekly on a Thursday morning at 10am and will last for around an hour and a half, with space for a short break.

What content will be covered?

Session 1: Introduction to the four categories of occupation: self care, leisure, productivity and parenting occupations, balance and routine.
Session 2: Identity after baby, becoming a parent - role transition and responsibility.
Session 3&4: Sensory profiles and adapting our environment to suit our needs.
Session 5&6: Practical tips on caring for your baby including feeding, sleep and play with nursery nurse support.

How do I join the group on the day?

Each week before the group, you will receive a Microsoft Teams link via your email. If you do not get a link, please contact the Perinatal Team before the group, so we can resend this to you.

We encourage everyone to join five minutes early in case of any technical difficulties.

Can I bring my baby to the group?

Of course! You are more than welcome to have baby present during the group or organise childcare; whichever makes you feel more comfortable.

What if I can’t attend all six sessions?

If you know you cannot attend all six sessions, please speak to your OT in advance. We can then make a personalised care plan with you, possibly with a separate catch up session.

If you are unable to attend at short notice (e.g. less than 24 hours) please contact the Perinatal Team ASAP. If you miss more than two sessions, it may be difficult for you to continue the group. We try to be flexible though, so please just keep talking to your care coordinator and OT if you have any difficulties attending.